About Wonder Dogs
West Seattle’s top spot for puppy and adult dog training, puppy socialization groups and all around fun with your dog.
We are not your average dog training facility. Every dog has their own personality, genetic make up and reason for doing or not doing any one thing on any given day. Our job is to help humans better understand their dog, what drives them, what makes them feel safe and happy, and how to shape their behavior so that they can have a great relationship with the humans in their life.
Whether you are a first time dog owner with a puppy suddenly running your life, an adoptive parent helping a dog adjust to a new environment, or a human looking for ways to engage with your dog in a way that is fun for both of you, we are here to help.
Our training methods are based on animal learning theory and positive reinforcement. We believe strongly that fear, pain, and punishment are not necessary to change a dog’s behavior or to teach new skills.
Our Team
Laurie C., MS, CCS
Owner
Laurie earned her Certificate of Canine Science from the Northwest School of Canine Studies in 2012. She started the program during her 4th year in business as See Spot Run where she took groups of dogs to the off leash park. Later that year, Laurie purchased 25 acres in SE Renton and rebranded as Unleashed Dog Camp, hired her first employees and added overnight boarding to her outdoor day camp program. In September of 2020, she took over a dog training and small dog day care business in West Seattle, rebranded as West Seattle Wonder Dogs and started teaching puppy classes non stop to meet the needs of all the new puppy owners during the pandemic. Laurie is forever grateful for her education and the network of exceptional dog trainers that she has connected with as a result. Though most of her time is spent behind the scenes, she always makes time to walk in the woods with the dogs at Unleashed or to stop in to play with the puppies at Wonder Dogs.
Erika T., CCS
Lead Trainer
Erika earned her CCS through the Northwest School of Canine studies in 2015. She has always loved dogs and got her start volunteering at the Tacoma Humane Society. She is passionate about improving owner’s relationships with their dogs and helping everyone be the best versions of themselves that they can be! She coaches play groups, teaches class and does private training. When she isn’t working with clients she enjoys spending time with her chihuahua mix, Garbanzo, and is a proud member of the Beyhive.
Skye F., CPTD-KA, CCS
Trainer
Skye earned their CCS through the Northwest School of Canine Studies in 2017 after starting their dog career in New Orleans as a dog walker and sitter. With a lifelong love of learning, Skye focuses on the human/dog bond and has worked in rescue, daycare, private training, and classes. Skye specializes in puppies and adolescent dogs. You can find them walking their dog in North Seattle and observing birds and insects in urban areas.
Ruby K., CCS,
FDM, FFCP
Trainer
Ruby earned her CCS from The Northwest School of Canine Studies in 2018. She is a certified Family Dog Mediator and a Fear Free Certified Professional Dog Trainer, currently studying to become a certified Trauma Informed Dog Practitioner. Ruby believes dogs must feel safe in order to learn and that building a strong relationship between dogs and their humans is essential. In addition to her private training company, Ruby worked at Seattle Humane for 1.5 years, developing their Puppy Play program and teaching puppy classes. She specializes in puppies and fearful dogs. Ruby spends her spare time gardening and fostering shelter dogs.
Crystal M., CPDT-KA, FFCP
Trainer
Originally from Oregon, Crystal started her animal training and husbandry experience as a ZooTeen at the Oregon Zoo. There she trained Misty the Shetland sheep and Betsy the Pygora goat who were residents at the Family Farm petting zoo. In 2013 Crystal became a dog trainer running group classes and private lessons where she enjoyed helping families build understanding, communication, and healthy behavior habits with their furry family members. Through self study, hands-on learning, and attending industry recognized educational resources Crystal is currently certified through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers and is a Certified Fear Free Pet Professional. Crystal and her husband share their home with Ada and Hedy, two Tibetan Terriers and Hopper, a tabby cat.
Sandy H., CCS
Trainer
Sandy earned her CCS from the Northwest School of Canine Studies in 2015, having previously worked in dog daycare and boarding. She enjoys teaching the fundamentals to dogs of all ages and coaching the humans who love them. When not training, Sandy is having adventures with her American Staffordshire, Tess, or practicing bass!